Picturing English Pastimes: British Sporting Prints at the NSLM

MIDDLEBURG, Virginia- A new exhibition of works on paper, Picturing English Pastimes: British Sporting Prints at the NSLMopens July 29, 2016. The exhibition focuses on the early 19th century British print market and includes examples by some of the most popular publishers and well-known sporting artists of the era. The installation will feature approximately 25 works of equestrian subjects, such as horse racing, hunting, and coaching, and highlight different types of printmaking techniques. Curated by John H. Daniels Fellow Jennifer Strotz, the selection of prints includes hand-colored etchings, engravings, and aquatints, which capture the vibrancy of sporting life with rich hues and fine lines.

The works are part of a collection donated to the NSLM in 2012 by Mr. and Mrs. Norman R. Bobins. The Bobins collection is made up of over 120 prints from the late-18th through 19th century and includes a variety of sporting subjects. Strotz’s research examines the relationships between artists, engravers, and publishers, and their popular equestrian subjects.

Strotz, who is currently part of the curatorial staff at the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, is interested in British sporting art, and printmaking in particular. She says, “My interest in British sporting prints first brought me to the NSLM while I studied art history at James Madison University - in between my own trail rides and fox hunting escapades.” She continued, “I am thrilled to have returned as a Fellow to collaborate with the Museum’s curators and further explore the rare book collection.

The exhibition is the result of combining the Fellowship program with the extensive art collections and Library resources at the NSLM. Since 2007, the NSLM has hosted the John H. Daniels Fellowship program, which supports research and scholarship in the areas of history, art, and literature related to equestrian and field sports. For more information about the Fellowship program, visit: http://www.nationalsporting.org/nslm/fellowship

Join Jennifer Strotz for Coffee with the Curator on Saturday, July 30th, 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. A coffee reception will be held from 10:00 - 10:30 a.m., followed by a gallery talk in the Museum. Admission to this event is free to NSLM members and $5 for non-members. Coffee provided by Middleburg Common Grounds. RSVP to Anne Marie Barnes, Educational Programs Manager & Fellowship Advisor, (540) 687-6542 x25 ABarnes@NationalSporting.org

The National Sporting Library & Museum (NSLM) is located in Middleburg, Virginia, the heart of beautiful hunt country. Founded in 1954, the renowned research Library, and fine art Museum highlight the rich heritage and tradition of country pursuits. Angling, horsemanship, shooting, steeplechasing, foxhunting, flat racing, polo, coaching, and wildlife are among the subjects one can explore in the organization’s general stacks, rare book holdings, archives, and art collection. The NSLM offers a wide variety of educational programs, exhibitions, and family activities throughout the year, and is open to researchers and the general public. While there is no admission fee to the Library, the Museum charges $10 for adults, $8 for youths (age 13-18), and $8 for seniors. NSLM members and children age 12 and under are free. Library & Museum hours are Wednesday-Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

John Nost Sartorius commemorated one of the biggest upsets in English Turf history when the Prince of Wales’ Traveller beat the favorite, Meteor. Despite his bad luck on this day, Meteor still holds the record for consecutive wins in Britain with twenty-one victories.